Social Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum for students is important because helps them learn essential skills to navigate social, emotional, and academic challenges, both in school and beyond. An SEL curriculum helps students develop self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and decision-making abilities, all of which are crucial for their overall well-being and success.
The Social Emotional Learning Curriculum Committee is progressing toward MVWSD's goal of recommending a SEL curriculum for the 2025-2026 school year to the Board of Trustees. This recommendation aligns with SP2027 and direction from the Board of Trustees.
Committee: The committee includes representatives from each school, two parents, and one community member, bringing a wide range of experience and perspectives.
Recommendation: The curriculum recommendation will be evidence-based, competency-based, and focused on the whole child, with materials that reflect the diversity of students and families. It will include both print and digital supports and provide data for informed instruction and intervention.
October 2024 Update: The committee held three initial meetings this month, fostering alignment on SEL perspectives and creating a rubric for evaluating potential curricula. Members reviewed district attendance, discipline, and SEL data, along with community feedback and existing SEL research.
Using a strategy from the National Implementation Research Network (NIRN), the committee successfully narrowed down over 100 curriculum options to 27 that best meet district needs in program offerings, materials, and professional development. The list will be further narrowed after research and discussion.
January 2025 Update: SEL Curriculum Progress & Community Engagement Opportunities
The work of our Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Curriculum Committee has reached an exciting milestone. Since September 2024, this dedicated team of educators, administrators, and community members has worked tirelessly to narrow down over
100 curriculum options to just two high-quality finalists for piloting. Their focus, commitment, and collaboration have been nothing short of extraordinary, and we are so proud of the progress we’ve made.
Pilot Information
Pilot 1: Second Step curriculum pilot is in progress, January 13, 2025 through February 14, 2025, with pilot teachers providing weekly lessons. You can find sample lesson plans and activities linked here.
Pilot 2: Character Strong curriculum pilot will take place February 24, 2025 through April 4, 2025, offering another exciting opportunity for our educators to implement effective SEL lessons. You can find more information here: Elementary Middle School
We Want Your Input!
As part of our shared commitment to ensuring the best for our students, we are inviting the MVWSD Community (teachers, staff, families) to review and provide feedback on the pilot curricula. Your perspective matters, and we’d love for you to join us at one of the following community review sessions:
SEL Curricula Review
Location: MVWSD District Office - Conference Room C
1400 Montecito Ave., Mountain View, CA 94043
March 13, 2025
Session 1: 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Session 2: 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
March 20, 2025
Session 3: 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Session 4: 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
These sessions are a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the SEL programs being considered, share your insights, and engage in the important work of shaping the future of our district’s approach to social-emotional learning. If you are unable to attend these sessions and are interested in reviewing the curricula, please email Karin Jinbo.
We are deeply grateful for the incredible efforts of the SEL Curriculum Committee and the support of our parent community. Let’s keep the momentum going as we work together to make a difference for our students!